(text-colour:#F0B27A)[You find yourself in your bed. It's late. The cabin is quiet and (text-colour:#D6C836)[Pooky]
(transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "Pooky")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[Pooky, your Ward,] sleeps soundly in their bed.
These last few nights you have been having dreams about your journey and you can't seem to fall asleep. Tonight, you did the extra check to make sure everything is prepared since you know that it will be a long day. You want everything to be ready for the journey.
Maybe you can't sleep because of your nerves - maybe adrenaline?
Maybe you need something warm to relax. //(text-colour:#DAF7A6)[[Go downstairs.]] //
(align:"=><=")+(box:"X=")[or] Maybe it's best to just try getting some //(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[rest]]//
](text-colour:#F0B27A)[You put the kettle on the stove and turn the heat up to high. Your favourite ceramic mug sits on the wooden shelf above waiting for you to fill it with a warm beverage.
Once you hear the whistling of the kettle, you move swiftly to take it off the stove top. Your mug fills with the hot water and the smell of warm (text-colour:#D6C836)[tea]
(transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "tea")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[chamomile and lavender, herbal tea] fills your nose.
You take your first sip slowly trying not to burn your tongue. The heat from the drink makes you sleepy as the evaporated water gently hugs your face.
You put your tea down on the side table next to the cozy couch and find yourself drifting. It's time to //(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[rest]]//
](text-colour:#F0B27A)[(text-colour:#D6C836)[Good morning!]
(transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "Good morning!")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[Good morning! The sun is shining and you have a good feeling about it.]
You are all ready packed and ready to go! Today is the big day and Pooky is up bright and early. You (text-colour:#D6C836)[sigh] (transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "sigh")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[sigh (maybe from uncertainty or maybe from excitement)]and give Pooky a hug for encouragement. They nestle into you and purr.
You break your embrace and smile at each other giving Pooky a little pet on the head.
Time for some last minute//(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[preparations]]////(text-colour:#DAF7A6)[!]//
](text-colour:#F0B27A)[(text-colour:#D6C836)[Map?]
(transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "Map?")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[Check!]
(text-colour:#D6C836)[Contact book?]
(transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "Contact book?")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[You got it!]
(text-colour:#D6C836)[Snacks and water?]
(transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "Snacks and water?")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[Of course!]
(text-colour:#D6C836)[Documents?]
(transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "Documents?")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[Check and Check!]
Time to //(text-colour:#DAF7A6)[[review your journey plan]]// with Pooky.
](text-colour:#F0B27A)[You lock up the cabin and put the key in your lilac satchel. It is a warm day. Pooky seems a bit on edge but you reassure them that this journey is neccessary. Pooky is (text-colour:#D6C836)[quiet.] (transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "quiet.")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[quiet. They have lots of love for you as their new Guardian and you cherish that and respect their boundaries.]
You must begin by following a folklore. Which do you choose?
(align:"=><=")[//(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[The Peach Tree’s Prophetic Blossom]]
//(text-colour:#F0B27A)[ or]
//(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[The Rain Of A Hundred Days]]//]](text-colour:#F0B27A)[You spread the map on the table and take out the note Pooky's past Guardian had sent you days after Pooky arrived at your door. It reads...]
(bg:white)+(text-colour:black)[Dear new Guardian,
If you are reading this, I am not able to take care of Pooky anymore. A cat like Pooky should know where they have come from and what they are destined for. I am not supposed to be writing to you but I feel that I need to. You must know a few things before you begin your journey. As you know, animal-folk in Hæth have their folklore. You must know that the only way for Pooky to find their home is by journeying through the Hæth's folklore. That is'' only'' way. Begin with what you know...
I've said too much already. Please do not show this letter to anyone and please help Pooky find their home. You must know they are a special Ward.
Do not contact me.
Regards.
]
(text-colour:#F0B27A)[Pooky attempts to read the note but you put it in your pocket and say, "Don't worry about that one, trust me."
Pooky turns away in anger. You know you are doing what is best for them. If you told them they wouldn't have joined the journey.
You simply explain the route of your journey through Hæth to Pooky and tell them it is neccessary to follow the folklore to find what you've both been looking for.
You are now //(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[ready to go]]//](text-colour:#F0B27A)[You head towards the place you know, remembering //(text-colour:#DAF7A6)[[the folklore your parents told you]]// when you were a kid.
You have always been to scared to visit the Hallow. It is a place where gods and mortal animal-folk mingle yet it is also a place of (text-colour:#D6C836)[binaries.] (transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "binaries.")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[binaries, evil and virtuous.] You reach the entrance of the cave and look down at Pooky. They seem (text-colour:#D6C836)[scared.] (transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "scared.")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[scared (and so are you).] You see a small creature scurry into the cave but it is too dark to see anything else.
Suddenly, it begins pouring rain. Oh no...
You don't know what to do! You are scared to go inside the Hallow but the idea of running in the rain with Pooky doesn't sound great either. What do you do?
//(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[Enter the cave]]//(align:"=><=")+(box:"X=")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[or]//(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[Run to the hills]]//](text-colour:#F0B27A)[You begin your journey to the farm following the folklore of The Peach Tree's Prophetic Blossom, remembering //(text-colour:#DAF7A6)[[the folklore your parents told you->Prophetic Blossom Folklore]]// when you were a kid.
Youhave visited the farm when you were young but have never seen any peach trees. It is a place where animal-folk mingle and eat fresh fruit. You have hear of peaches only in the //(text-colour:#DAF7A6)[[folklore->Prophetic Blossom Folklore]]// and you are eager to find if they (text-colour:#D6C836)[exist.] (transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "exist.")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[exist. Or better, if they actually have powers that will help Pooky find their home.] You reach the entrance of the farm and look down at Pooky. They seem (text-colour:#D6C836)[curious.] (transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "curious.")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[curious (and so are you).] You open the gate and make your way through the dirt path.
Where do you choose to go?
//(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[The barn ]]//(text-colour:#F0B27A)[ or]//(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[The water tower->The watertower]]//](text-colour:#F0B27A)[You sat in your plush bed in the warmth of the winter fireplace with your Guardian sat next to you. They read from the book of folklore about //The Rain Of A Hundred Days//...]
(bg:white)+(text-colour:black)[(text-color:black)+(text-style:"outline")+(css: "font-size: 200%")+(align:"=><=")
[[The Rain Of A Hundred Days]]
The Hallow used to be a place where strange creatures roamed freely and played together. Suddenly, this all changed when The Rain Of A Hundred Days crashed down. All of the creatures went into hiding. The Hallow became a place of darkness as they moved into the caves. After the rain period, creatures began to change. The caves had transformed them into creatures of special powers. Strong animal-folk from Hæth visited the Hallows and came back changed forever. What was seen and heard was a combination of evil and virtuous.
The Hallow is now a sacred space where small creatures speak prophesies. They play together and cry together. The creatures are gods that mingle with animal-folk from Hæth that are strong enough to enter the Hallows like those who entered years ago.
Since the hundred day rain period, it has only rained two times. One animal-folk who was at the Hallow during the first rain said that the rain now means that there is something of either extreme love or hate to be prophesized.]
(text-colour:#F0B27A)[You remember what your Guardian told you when you were young as you move along. It's time to get back to your journey exploring the folklore of //(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[The Rain Of A Hundred Days]]//
](text-colour:#F0B27A)[You run frantically into the cave. Two creatures greet you. They are the only sources of light in the dark cave. You must choose to follow one...
//(text-colour:#DAF7A6)[[Follow Furtive, god of dust bunnies]]//(align:"=><=")+(box:"X=")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[or]//(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[Follow Yasma, god of reflections]]//](text-colour:#F0B27A)[You grab Pooky's paw and start running for the hills. You know what happens when it rains at the Hallow and you didn't want to find out if your journey would (text-colour:#D6C836)[end in pain.](transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "end in pain.")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[end in pain...something in your heart made you think it would.]
You quickly make it to the hills and scramble trying to find a dry space. All you see are plain valleys and the more you waste time looking around the more Pooky gets wet. You spot two places for shelter. Where do you choose to stay dry?
//(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[Under a tree->Under a tree]]//(align:"=><=")+(box:"X=")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[or]//(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[In an abandoned shed->Under a tree]]//](text-colour:#F0B27A)[You make it to shelter and hold Pooky in your arms. "It's ok," you reassure them as they shiver. Pooky remains quiet as usual and their breathing gradually (text-colour:#D6C836)[slows down.]
(transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "slows down.")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[slows down. Your breath matches Pookys' and there is a peaceful moment where you sit still - listening to the rain as it falls heavy. "Was this the right decision?" you ask yourself. But you know it was what you had to do. Pooky has given you so much love already.]
And just as quickly as the rain came, the sun began to make its way into the sky again.
You get up slowly and make it out into the open. The rain is gone and you see that //(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[you are at the Hillock]]//
](text-colour:#F0B27A)[Suddenly you are transported to the Hillock. A place of looming valleys, deep gorges, and a soft breeze. Pooky and you stand in silence.
You look down at Pooky and their eyes (text-colour:#D6C836)[sparkle](transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "sparkle")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[sparkle with hope] as they return the glance. Something in your heart tells you that this is where you are meant to be.
In your silence you begin hearing whispers. It is almost as though they are being carried through the hills. Thousands of little whispers fill your ears.
//(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[You close your eyes]]// (text-colour:#F0B27A) [ or]//(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[You call out]]//
](text-colour:#F0B27A)[You listen.
You realise that you are holding Pookys' (text-colour:#D6C836)[paw tightly.](transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "paw tightly.")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[paw tightly (they are squeezing yours back.]
As you stand listening with your eyes closed, the whispers become more clear.
(text-colour:#DAF7A6)[Pooky, my dear...]
(transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "Pooky, my dear...")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[Pooky, my dear... home is where...] (text-colour:#DAF7A6)[home is...] (text-colour:#DAF7A6)[Pooky, my dear...] (transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "Pooky, my dear...")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[Pooky, my dear... home is where...your heart lies.]
The whispers are//(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[clear.]]//
](text-colour:#F0B27A)[(text-colour:#D6C836)["Who's there?"](transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "Who's there?")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)["Who's there?" you yell out.]
Your head is spinning trying to understand the whispers that surround you.
You cover your ears and crouch down to hold Pooky. It's too much to handle...
//(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[You keep calling...you want to know who is there]]// (text-colour:#F0B27A)+(align:"=><=")+(box:"X=")[ [ or]]//(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[You close your eyes]]//
](text-colour:#F0B27A)[''Home is where your heart lies''
You open your eyes and look down to find Pooky already looking at you. There are tears in your eyes. The journey of folklore to find Pookys' home has led you here.
You get on your knees where you are now at Pookys' height. The whispers have quieted down and a light breeze carries them to the other end of the valley.
You want to ask Pooky "Where is your home?" but before you do //(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[Pooky says...]]//
](text-colour:#F0B27A)[''"You are my //(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[home.->The End]]//"'']
(text-colour:#F0B27A)[
(text-color:#F0B27A)+(text-style:"outline")+(css: "font-size: 200%")[Acknowledgments Page]
Thank you for playing //''Journey Through Folklore''//! This game was made possible though gameplay of Jay Dragon's wonderful RPG ''//Wanderhome//'' with my playgroup in my Creative Writing course. The imagined world of ''//Wanderhome// ''allowed for the exploration of folklore in the game as well as the concept of finding where players call home.
//(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[Start from the beginning->START]]//
]
(text-color:#F0B27A)+(text-style:"outline")+(css: "font-size: 200%")[The End.]
//(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[Start from the beginning->START]]//
//(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[Go to the Acknowledgments Page]]//(text-colour:#F0B27A)[
(text-color:#F0B27A)+(text-style:"outline")+(css: "font-size: 200%")[Journey Through Folklore]
[(text-color:#F0B27A)[by] (text-colour:#D6C836)[Talia]
(transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "Talia")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[Talia (CRWR 312)] ]
//(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[Begin here, Guardian...->the beginning]]//
](text-colour:#F0B27A)[You hold Pookys' paw and walk towards (text-colour:#D6C836)[ hopping Furtive.](transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "hopping Furtive.")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[hopping Furtive. They are a graceful and friendly looking bunny that you have only heard about in the folklore.]
The cave is dark and the smell of dampness fills the air.
Furtive hops in front of you guiding you deeper into the cave. They lead you to a space with a fire lit. It is warm and comforting to see some light in this dark tunnel. Furtives' little bunny babies are nestled around the fire.
''"Please be silent as to not wake them. We must get started," ''says Furtive.
''"Pooky, with the help of your Guardian choose a card to lead you home."''
Pooky looks up at you for assistance. They realise now why they are on this journey. You hug them and they hug you back tightly. You know the choice is up to you.
Which card do you choose?
//(text-colour:#DAF7A6)[[The Floral Talk Card]]//(align:"=><=")+(box:"X=")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[or]//(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[The Barrel Hug Card]]//](text-colour:#F0B27A)[You hold Pooky's paw and walk towards (text-colour:#D6C836)[ Yasma as he floats.](transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "Yasma as he floats.")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[Yasma as he floats. He is a gentle looking creature with large wings that you have only heard about in the folklore.]
The cave is dark and moist.
Yasma flies in front of you guiding you deeper into the cave. He leads you to his room of reflections. Mirrors make you a bit dizzy. It has been a long trip and you know Pooky is starting to feel it too.
''"We must begin," ''says Yasma as he perches himself on a steady rock.
''"Pooky, look in the mirror."''
Pooky looks in the mirror in their right and blushes. All of a sudden we are transported through the mirrors.
We are in a tavern filled with cat-folk. They drink warm milk together. It is a quiet atmosphere but in a way that is (text-colour:#D6C836)[comforting.](transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "comforting.")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[comforting. It feels safe.]
You look in Pookys' reflection in the mirror and see tears fill their eyes.
All of a sudden the mirror scene vanishes and we are left looking at our own reflections.
Yasma looks at you and nods. You nod back. It is time to //(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[leave the cave]]// ](text-color:#F0B27A)+(text-style:"outline")+(css: "font-size: 200%")[The Floral Talk Card]
(text-colour:#DAF7A6)+(text-style:"outline")+(css: "font-size: 150%")[
''"Go to the hills where the
wind speaks.
there you shall find what you seek."'']
(text-color:#F0B27A)[Furtive smiles after reading the card outloud. The sound of rain has now stopped and it is time to leave the cave.
As you walk out the brighness blinds you and all you see is white light. You squint and almost //(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[make out where you've ended up...->you are at the Hillock]]// ](text-color:#F0B27A)+(text-style:"outline")+(css: "font-size: 200%")[The Barrel Hug Card]
(text-colour:#DAF7A6)+(text-style:"outline")+(css: "font-size: 150%")[
''"Ask for the cat with the magical ale.
With him you will find only love, not betrayl."'']
(text-color:#F0B27A)[Furtive smiles after reading the card outloud. The sound of rain has now stopped and it is time to //(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[leave the cave]]// ](text-color:#F0B27A)[You look down at your map for guidance but you know where to go next.
The sun is out again as you walk out of the cave. You are ready to keep moving with where the gods in Hallow have guided you.
Pooky tugs on your sleeve and you know they are hungry.
You smile and say, "Your body is telling you where you need to be! //(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[Let's go, dear!]]// ](text-color:#F0B27A)[After walking past the Hallow you make it to the edge of the Hæth at the little (text-colour:#D6C836)[village of Wands.] (transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "village of Wands.")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[village of Wands - a village filled with mainly cat and kitten-folk.] The tavern you have been waiting for reaches your sight!
You look down at Pooky and notice that they have left your side and are sprinting towards the tavern.
//(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[Run after Pooky]]//(text-colour:#F0B27A) [ or]//(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[Explore Wands]]//
](text-color:#F0B27A)[You follow Pooky into the tavern and see that they have already found there place.
You look around and notice many animal-folk holding lilac satchels. Maybe you came to the right place afterall.
You sit down next to Pooky and order warm bug-milk.
The server looks down at your sachel and asks you, "Are you sure you would not like some ale. You are a Guardian afterall."
You look at Pooky and they are nodding passionately.
"Sure," //(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[you respond.]]//
](text-color:#F0B27A)[You walk a little on your own and take in the little town.
The air is filled with the smell of freshly baked bread and young kittens play with yarn in the streets. Older cats lie bathing in the sunshine. Others adjusting their sleeping positions to be out of the shade.
(text-colour:#D6C836)[I like this town]
(transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "I like this town")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)["I like this town," you think to yourself.]
//(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[It's time to get back to Pooky->Run after Pooky]]//
](text-colour:#D6C836)[Please talk to us!!](transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "Please talk to us!!")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)["Please talk to us!!" The more you, yell the more you get frustrated]
(text-colour:#F0B27A)[
Tears begin to fill your eyes and you look at Pooky who is curled up in a ball.
You tell them you are (text-colour:#D6C836)[sorry](transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "sorry")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[sorry. You have tried to be the best Guardian but finding Pookys' home is a journey that you don't think are ready to handle.]
Pooky fights against the whispers in the wind and nestles up next to you. And for the first time you hear them speak. Pooky tells you not to worry. All that matters is that I have you//(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[...->Pooky says...]]//
](text-colour:#F0B27A)[You sat in your plush bed in the warmth of the winter fireplace with your Guardian sat next to you. They read from the book of folklore about //The Peach Tree's Prophetic Blossom//...]
(bg:white)+(text-colour:black)[(text-color:black)+(text-style:"outline")+(css: "font-size: 200%")+(align:"=><=")
[The Peach Tree's Prophetic Blossom]
Mr. Argyle always writes about tending his peach tree. How chubby bumblebees fly around it giving it kisses to help it grow. Mr.Argyle lives alone at the farm near the Hallow. Every spring, the farmers gather their crops and sell them at the market from Argyle's farm. All Mr. Argyle brings to sell are his poems about his lovely peach tree yet noone has seen the tree - they have only heard of its glories from Mr. Argyle. They say that if Mr. Argyle guides you to one of his poems regarding the tree, that you have a chance to hear its prophesies when it blooms. Only one is led into the arms of the tree. Only one can hear it's prophecy.
]
(text-colour:#F0B27A)[You remember what your Guardian told you when you were young as you move along. It's time to get back to your journey exploring the folklore of //(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[The Peach Tree’s Prophetic Blossom]]//
](text-colour:#F0B27A)[You walk towards the water tower which is painted.
You've never seen something so mundane look so beautifully (text-colour:#D6C836)[decorated.](transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "decorated.")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[decorated with bright colours you didn't know existed.]
There is a scene painted. You reckognize the large animal-folk as Guardians as they are all wearing lilac satchels like the one you carry. The Wards look so happy and safe.
Where are the Guardians and their Wards located?
(align:"=><=")[ //(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[Dancing in a Field together]]//
(text-colour:#F0B27A) [ or]
//(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[Enjoying each others company at a tavern]]//
(text-colour:#F0B27A) [ or]
//(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[Under a luscious peach tree]]//
]](text-colour:#F0B27A)[You walk towards the large barn.
(text-colour:#D6C836)[Is anyone there?](transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "Is anyone there?")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)["Is anyone there?"You ask before touching the barn door.]
You knock on the door and it suddenly opens ajar.
A kind-looking frog peers outside to you and Pooky. He wears an argyle sweater vest and holds a pen in his mouth.
"Mr.Argyle!", you exclaim remembering the Prophetic Blossom Folklore.
(text-colour:#D6C836)["I have heard many stories of your peach trees. We are looking for my Ward, Pooky's home," you explain to him.]
Mr.Argyle smiles and opens the door encouraging you to join him inside.
//(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[You follow Mr.Argyle into the barn]]//
]
(text-colour:#F0B27A)[The Wards in the scene hold the hands of their Guardians with smiles on their faces. They dance in the fields and over the hills.
You see a small inscription. (text-colour:#D6C836)[It reads...](transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "It reads...")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[It reads...
''"Go to the hills where the
wind speaks. there you shall find what you seek."'']
"The Hillock!" you exclaim to Pooky. That is where you need to go.
Pooky smiles at you and grabs you by the paw. The painted scene made them happy. You make your way back from where you came from and leave the farm to your //(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[next destination...->Let's go, dear!]]//
](text-colour:#F0B27A)[The Wards in the scene are gathered at] (text-colour:#D6C836)[a table](transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "a table")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[a large, dark wood table] (text-colour:#F0B27A)[with a cat at the head of it. ](text-colour:#F0B27A)[They are all enjoying warm bug milk and ale. Everyone looks peaceful and at home as the fireplace is lit with a stew cooking.
Looking at the scene makes you hold Pooky's ](text-colour:#D6C836)[Pooky's paw.](transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "Pooky's paw.")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[Pooky's paw. There is something about it that makes you feel cozy.]
(text-colour:#F0B27A)[You see a small inscription.] (text-colour:#D6C836)[It reads...](transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "It reads...")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[It reads...
''"You'll think you want bug-milk but you will order ale.
With this large cat you will find only love, not betrayl."''
(text-colour:#F0B27A)["The tavern!" you exclaim to Pooky. That is where you need to go.
Pooky smiles up at you. The painted scene made them happy. You make your way back from where you came from and leave the farm to your //(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[next destination->Let's go, dear!]]//
]](text-colour:#F0B27A)[The barn is smaller than you expected and there is no livestock or hay. It is filled with loose paper containing a variety of drawings and written work.
Mr. Argyle rummages around the stacks of paper and pulls out one with a drawing of a large peach tree with some writing](text-colour:#D6C836)[ underneath.](transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "underneath")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[ underneath - perhaps it is a poem he has written]
(text-colour:#F0B27A)[He slowly hands it to you without saying a word.. ](text-colour:#D6C836)[It reads...](transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "It reads...")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[It reads...
''"The Peach Tree is the one you seek,
wait for the bloom to find your prophecy"''
What do you do?
(text-colour:#F0B27A)[
(align:"=><=")[ //(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[Ask Mr. Argyle where the tree is]]//
(text-colour:#F0B27A) [ or]
//(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[Ask Pooky what to do]]//
]]](text-colour:#F0B27A)[You want Pooky to decide what to do next. Where should you go?
Pooky points to the forest next to the farm. You have a feeling that they know where to go. Their heart is leading them to the forest
You look at Pooky and hold their paw. //(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[You both make your way to the forest.]]//
](text-colour:#F0B27A)[The Wards in the scene are gathered around a tree you've never] (text-colour:#D6C836)[seen before.](transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "seen before.")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[seen before, a giant blooming peach tree.] (text-colour:#F0B27A)[You place your hand on the scene and feel the smooth surface of the watertower underneath the bright colours of paint. You've only seen
''Where could this tree be? Is it even real? What do you do?'']
(align:"=><=")[ //(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[You look more closely at the painting.]]//
(text-colour:#F0B27A) [ or]
//(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[You look down at Pooky.->Ask Pooky what to do]]//
] (text-colour:#F0B27A)[As you walk through the forest you feel a space that holds nature close to its heart. A space with tangled undergrowth and trees older than any kingdom.
You move through the forest and it feels almost] (text-colour:#D6C836)[enchanted.](transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "enchanted.")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[enchanted. Pooky is transported.]
(text-colour:#F0B27A)[The more you walk, the more concerned you become. Was this the right choice?]
(text-colour:#F0B27A)+
(align:"=><=")[ //(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[Keep moving.]]//
(text-colour:#F0B27A) [ or]
//(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[Be strong and trust your intuition.->Keep moving.]]//
](text-colour:#F0B27A)[You follow Pooky. It seems as if they know exactly which way to turn. Something is calling them...
It is getting] (text-colour:#D6C836)[darker now.](transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "darker now.")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[darker now, the sun begins to set.]
(text-colour:#F0B27A)[As you walk deeper into the forest you hear whispers. They come in fast waves and are too quick to comprehend.
What are they saying?
Finally, you see Pooky stopped in front of you. Their head is turned to the right.
You follow their eyes and you see what captivates them //(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[so intensely...]]//
](text-colour:#D6C836)[The Prophetic Peach Tree!](transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "The Prophetic Peach Tree!")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[The Prophetic Peach Tree! It's true...it does exist outside Mr. Argyle's mind!]
(text-colour:#F0B27A)[The whispers that filled the air become quiet as you and Pooky approach the tree.
All of a sudden, the tree's branches extend slowly and surround Pooky, gently petting their head. Pooky seems relaxed and responds with a soft purr.
The tree is full of buds - the flowers have yet to bloom.
Seeing Pookie relaxed eases your mind a little.]
(align:"=><=")[ //(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[You sit in the grass.]]//
(text-colour:#F0B27A) [ or]
//(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[You lean on a nearby pine tree.->You sit in the grass.]]//
](text-colour:#F0B27A)[You ease your body and see Pooky enjoy a hug from the beautiful tree. Then, to your surprise the buds on the tree begin to open. The whispers that filled the air earlier return with a soft] (text-colour:#D6C836)[intensity.](transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "intensity.")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[intensity - like a spring breeze.]
(text-colour:#F0B27A)[Pooky closes their eyes as the flowers surround them to form a pink cloud of petals. You can't make out the words in the whispers you hear but you know that you are not meant to. The prophetic bloom. It is for one.]
//(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[You wait...]]//(text-colour:#F0B27A)[The whispering sounds make you very relaxed so you adjust your position and lie on your side so that you are still facing Pooky in case anything happens.]
(align:"=><=")[ //(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[You watch the beautiful colours fill the sky. ]]//
(text-colour:#F0B27A) [ or]
//(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[You doze off...->the beginning]]//
](text-colour:#F0B27A)[The petals slowly fall to the grass bed beneath and you see Pooky looking straight at you with tears in their eyes.
They run towards you and give you the warmest hug. You squeeze them tightly and nestle into their soft fur.
(text-colour:#D6C836)[Where is your home Pooky?](transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "Where is your home Pooky?")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)["Where is your home Pooky?" you ask. (text-colour:#F0B27A)[Pookie doesn't respond but looks up to you and for the first time, speaks to you //(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[and says...]]//]]
](text-colour:#F0B27A)["Some things are for the heart to keep safe. This experience has given me love and knowledge like you have and that is all you need to know for now.
I love you.
Thank you for this journey. Let's go //(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[home."->The End]]// ](text-color:#F0B27A)[You wait patiently for the ale to arrive and Pooky and you enjoy each other's company. You have been journeying for some time and it is nice to just sit together.
Suddenly, a large cat sits next to you.
"You ordered ale? Follow me please," the cat says.
Pooky immediately gets up and follows the cat. You are still sat down watching the two cats walk towards a door on the east side of the tavern. You are confused.
''What do you do?'']
(text-colour:#F0B27A)+(align:"=><=")[ //(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[You get up and follow behind trying to catch up]]//]
(align:"=><=")+(text-colour:#F0B27A) [ or]
(align:"=><=")[//(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[You sit back and let Pooky explore]]//]
(text-colour:#F0B27A)[You decide to sit back. Sometimes being a Guardian makes you overprotective but you do believe in the value of being independent. It is something you want Pooky to explore. You sit back and turn to the east side of the restaurant so that you are still facing Pooky's direction in case anything happens.]
(text-colour:#D6C836)[You wait...](transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "You wait...")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[You wait...and wait... and suddenly, the door opens again.
(text-colour:#F0B27A)[Pooky stands at the doorway with the large cat over their shoulder. They hug each other and Pooky makes their way back to you.
You see tears in their eyes and you know they have realized why they are on this journey.
As they approach the table they shared just an hour before, they jump on your lap and give you the warmest hug. You squeeze them tightly and nestle into their soft fur.
(text-colour:#D6C836)[Where is your home Pooky?](transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "Where is your home Pooky?")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)["Where is your home Pooky?" you ask. (text-colour:#F0B27A)[Pookie doesn't respond but looks up to you and for the first time, speaks to you //(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[and says...]]//]]]
](text-color:#F0B27A)[You make it to the door and it slowly opens to a large, lively room. You look around and see Guardians with their Wards. Laughing and being together.
The cat turns to you and hands you and Pooky two small barrel of ale.
You see something glittery on the top and you look at Pooky. You trust them. You take a sip and all of a sudden you are transported.
You start to feel emotions and remember memories you've never felt before. You look around and see the Guardians in the bar have now surrounded you with love and warmth. You feel heavy in the best way. A tear rolls down your cheek and you close your eyes...
//(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[The moments you feel have so much love and safety.]]//](text-color:#F0B27A)[You don't know how much time has passed now. You open your eyes and see Pooky in the crowded room.
The Guardians who held you in their arms have now returned to their seats and are just as you saw them when you entered the room earlier. Enjoying time with their Wards.
//(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[you understand now...]]//
](text-color:#F0B27A)[Pooky finds you in the room and sits next to you. They are warm yet seem a bit dizzy.
They know you know what it feels like now - How it feels to have so much love.
You quickly grab them close to your heart and squeeze them in your arms.
Pooky starts purring and you know that] (text-colour:#D6C836)[this is home for them...](transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "this is home for them...")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[this is home for them...and this is home (text-colour:#DAF7A6) [//[[for you.->The End]]//]](text-colour:#F0B27A)[You see a small inscription.] (text-colour:#D6C836)[It reads...](transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "It reads...")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[It reads...
''"Listen close to hear my words,
your ear can lean on me.
It is time to find your home,
it is what you expect it to be."''
(text-colour:#F0B27A)[You put your ear on the cold water tower and pull Pooky closer to join you. You try to listen but all you hear is the sound of constrained water moving ever so slightly.
You look down at Pooky and they seem to be in a trance. You ask them if they can hear anything and they don't respond. They are listening with intent.
[ //(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[You know they can hear something...->listen]]//
]]
]
(text-colour:#F0B27A)[Pooky slowly removes their ear from being pressed against the watertower. You don't know (text-colour:#D6C836)[what to say.]
(transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "what to say.")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[what to say, you always knew Pooky was special.]
Everything in your journey plan has led to this moment.
Pooky stands next to you and holds your paw without saying anything.
You know that this is just the beginning of a //(text-colour:#DAF7A6)[[new journey...->The End]]// ](text-colour:#F0B27A)[All of a sudden Pooky starts to speak. It is the first time you have heard their voice and just that makes your eyes fill with water.]
(text-colour:#D6C836)["Your home is a space of love and tenderness, Pooky begins...](transition:"fade")+(click-replace: "Your home is a space of love and tenderness, Pooky begins...")+(text-colour:#F0B27A)[Your home is a space of love and tenderness," Pooky begins..."
Your home was safe but you were destined to be a Ward...Your parents accepted this destiny and led you to your first Guardian... I know you can't remember your parents....you were young. Just know that they loved every minute of being with you and that they also knew you were destined for //(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[greater things....->You know they can hear something...]]//"](text-colour:#F0B27A)[You ask Mr.Argyle where to go. You've never seen a peach tree at the farm.
He says...]
(text-colour:#D6C836)['' "The bloom is found in a beautiful design. Perhaps not real but painted sublime"'']
(text-colour:#F0B27A)[You remember the water tower with designs of all colours. Perhaps that is where you need to go!
''What do you do?'']
(align:"=><=")[ //(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[You decide to go to the watertower.->The watertower]]//
(text-colour:#F0B27A) [ or]
//(text-colour:#DAF7A6) [[You ask Pooky what they want to do.->Ask Pooky what to do]]//]